Wednesday, January 15, 2014

I am assuming that by now you've worked out that I kinda like all things vintage. And I've reached an age where I'm thinking 'Damn it, I like it. I'm going to wear it.' A lot of people probably reached that age before me, but what can I say - I'm a late bloomer. But some caution is still necessary. Because as much as I adore vintage, there is always the danger of looking like your grandma unless you are very careful and bear in mind that it is not actually 1940 (or 1930 or 1830 or whatever your chosen era may be).

I know 'Granny Chic' is a thing and for girls of a younger age and slighter build than myself, it can look kind of cute and quirky. Loveably eccentric. A little bit Annie Hall, maybe even a little bit French. But for me? Hmmm. As much as I do like kilts, tweed and floral dresses (and I do), how you wear vintage can make a lot of difference!

So it is that I began to think last week, 'I would love a 1940s-ish handbag'. But then I started to think about those handbags. You can't put them on your shoulder, they have those bitey little clasps and they look like they should be full of peppermint sweets and pictures of grandchildren. So I consulted the excellent http://www.landgirl1980.co.uk/ blog for inspiration. And then, oh yes...a satchel. Of course! Cute, practical and with a little bit more...well, you know. After then conferring with Mr Google, a 'Cambridge' satchel seemed to be the go, but the prices (in British pounds!) left me recoiling in horror. Until I found this little treasure on Ebay for under $20. Happy days.

Vintage with a little bit more cute and a little bit less mothball. How do you wear vintage?

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Hello! I'm so sorry for my absence these last few weeks. I've missed being here. I hope that you had a lovely Christmas and I truly wish you every good thing for this new year that is spreading out invitingly before us.

Here in the Yellow Wood, I have had a quiet time, taking it slowly and as calmly as I can, while the sand shifts beneath our feet.

The comforting and familiar has had my firm and grateful attention...I have been cooking some good and simple dishes from the wonderful CWA's (Country Women's Association) Family Meals. Kedgeree, quiche and orange cake. So very good!

Knitting has me preoccupied again...will I ever graduate beyond garter stitch? I sometimes think I have the knack of another stitch and then it skitters away again (laughing a little at me, I think)...!

I am reading and falling in love with Elsie J. Oxenham's Abbey Girls series. Wonderful! They are like book length conversations with Call the Midwife's Chummy!